202 captured repliesDiscussion pagination complete · Source accounts, not a confirmed diagnosis
THIS DISCUSSION / SOURCE-DERIVED OVERVIEW
Discussion summary
YOUR RESEARCHMy '03 996 C2 with 997/991 style headlight covers
Reported or suspected cause
original design pinky lai intended and looks cleaner
Reported cause
No successful repair reported for this finding.
1
Identified cause
0
Suspected cause
0
Reported fixes
Read evidence and context
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that report identifying a cause
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Reported cause · Original poster
I have a preference for the MK1 headlight design as it was the original design Pinky Lai intended and looks cleaner to me (not to mention how badass it looks on the Gt1 car).
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Suggestion · Original poster
A few details: the foglights are covered, the covers are adhered with 3m double sided tape and easy to remove if needed, the version I made is for headlights without the washers (it may fit over the washer holes if you don't mind losing the caps but have to check).
Leading evidence: 'original design pinky lai intended and looks cleaner' (1 discussions report identifying this cause; no attributable repair resolution). Across 1 matching discussions, the most frequently mentioned possible cause is 'original design pinky lai intended and looks cleaner' (1 discussions; 1 report identifying it and 0 suggest it). The most frequently discussed action is 'Check )' (1 discussions). For that action, 0 discussions report a resolution and 0 report an unsuccessful attempt. No action has an explicit, attributable resolution report under the current rules. These are forum reports and suggestions, not a confirmed diagnosis.
Source reports, not a diagnosis or a success probability. Counts refer to discussions and can overlap.
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that performed work without a confirmed outcome
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Performed · outcome unconfirmed
I checked the date and mine have been on 15 years now.
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that performed work without a confirmed outcome
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Performed · outcome unconfirmed · Original poster
I decided not to do a version for headlight washers because we have installed the covers on a few cars with headlight washers and it came out fine.
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that performed work without a confirmed outcome
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Performed · outcome unconfirmed
I will just share that.....every one of my cars is significantly 'changed'....often going from the new showroom to the body/paint shop.
Explicit resolution reports before identified causes, performed actions and suggestions. Within each level, matching component labels precede direct query mentions and inherited thread context; successful versus unsuccessful discussion counts, owner confirmations and independent discussion support determine order. This is not a probability of success.
Discussions that performed work without a confirmed outcome
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
These are separate views of the same evidence. Frequency alone does not establish a fix, and these counts must not be added together.
Check )
No successful repair reported for this finding.
0
Reported fixes
0
Unsuccessful attempts
1
Discussions
Read evidence and context
Discussions that contain suggestions
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Suggestion · Original poster
A few details: the foglights are covered, the covers are adhered with 3m double sided tape and easy to remove if needed, the version I made is for headlights without the washers (it may fit over the washer holes if you don't mind losing the caps but have to check).
These are separate views of the same evidence. Frequency alone does not establish a fix, and these counts must not be added together.
original design pinky lai intended and looks cleaner
No successful repair reported for this finding.
1
Identified cause
0
Suspected cause
0
Reported fixes
Read evidence and context
Discussions that report identifying a cause
1
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Reported cause · Original poster
I have a preference for the MK1 headlight design as it was the original design Pinky Lai intended and looks cleaner to me (not to mention how badass it looks on the Gt1 car).
0 original-poster resolution reports. Counts can overlap; they are not unique people or a success rate.
0 discussions have direct query context; 0 report a fix in that context. Other evidence may inherit the discussion’s subject.
Suspected cause
The covers tend to come out better on darker cars since the parting lines and details are much more easily obscured, but this is probably the best looking headlight mask I've seen on a lighter coloured 996.
Counts describe captured discussions, not unique people or a diagnosis. Author identities are not reliably stored. Exact duplicate evidence is counted once across matching discussions; one discussion counts at most once per action/state. Multiple repairs reported together remain a combination. Suggestions and failed attempts do not establish a fix. Matches cover whole discussions and can include related faults, model variants and incomplete threads.
202 eligible posts · 0 unverified posts · 1 discussions match the subject in their title or opening post.
Rennlist: 1 discussions
0 evidence records excluded for query context · 0 excluded by outcome qualification · 0 adjusted by outcome qualification.
0 acknowledgements have no verified action link; they do not establish a repair result.
Generation: 20261026T194705Z · outcome-qualification-6. Deterministic extraction; no AI model inference. How we use sources
A few years ago when I got my car, I started looking for good headlight modification options for my 996 that would give it more of a classic round headlight look. I found the same options as many of you probably have, ugly headlight covers which make the car look worse (imo) or a 997 front end conversion which can cost up to $10k. After seeing the options, I decided to try and make my own headlight covers that would recreate the classic look in a believeable way. Little did I know I would be embarking on a 2 year long process requiring me to work with a 3d designer, destroy a set of headlights, create numerous prototypes, and learn about manufacturing.
Now, I can finally say I'm satisfied with the quality of the headlight covers and wanted to show you guys the final pre-production piece. The piece is made out of polyurethane (same materials as bumpers), flexible, and can be painted normally. I 3d scanned the original lights to make sure it fits snugly on top of the existing lens. If you look at the close-up you'll notice we did a lot of work on the beveled edges to make the "headlight ring" look like a distinct piece from the part that covers up the foglamp that is painted body color. Also, we made sure to follow the natural hood seams and lines of the bumper. From the side it gives off a very 991 vibe and front the front it looks 997ish.
I'm currently working out the details on getting them produced and hope to have things nailed down by this week. The price will depend on whatever the costs come out to. This whole project was a hobby for me and at this point am I mainly looking to cover what I spent on making the headlight covers with a small production run. A few details: the foglights are covered, the covers are adhered with 3m double sided tape and easy to remove if needed, the version I made is for headlights without the washers (it may fit over the washer holes if you don't mind losing the caps but have to check). If there is a lot of interest from the people with headlights w/ washers, I may consider doing another small run for a version with holes for the washers. If interested in purchasing, please visit
www.varielautomotive.com/
.
Let me know what you guys think!
I think I disagree with the premise (I'm totally on board with the 996 headlight shapes), but I cannot deny that those are quite well executed. The covers tend to come out better on darker cars since the parting lines and details are much more easily obscured, but this is probably the best looking headlight mask I've seen on a lighter coloured 996.
I love the 996 headlights one of the reasons I bought the car.
However I do respect your car and that you've invested so much time in something you're passionate about and modifing your car to be your own. If I had to choose to between the ones I've seen and yours I'd choose yours!
Definitely the best design I've seen as far as headlight covers go. Almost makes you forget it's a cover (but not quite). The idea you had to create a distinct ring for the round part is a really good one as it fools the eye. That said the light conditions and shadows in the pics you posted really attenuate the lines and shadows, so not sure if they would look so good from other angles or under harsh light. For my part, I really dig MKII lights so I wouldn't cover them up.
I agree with what was said previously though. There will always be 996 owners who want to change the look of the headlights and if you start producing these I suspect they will sell like hot cakes. This is a smart design, well done.
Edit: can you post additional pics / side view?
Good job, very clean looking covers and they blend in nicely to the front end of the car. For sure these 996.2 covers are the best looking out there. Cheers,
I also agree they're some of the best masks I've seen, but I'm not one to cover up the factory look. I know the purists went in a tail spin when Pinky Lai designed the original "fried egg" head lights for the 996, but personally, I've always like them because they were radical and different. Especially the Turbo style which is what you have.
But if you like them, then go for it... who are we to stand in your way.
Same as others have said, I like the MK2 lights, so no plans to cover them.
Your mask is much better than the others I have seen. I wonder how many you will need to sell to recoup your R&D costs?
See? Aren't these eyes simply hypnotizing?
Yet another "I don't like to see the lights covered, but that is an excellent execution" response here.
Seriously. Kudos on that. It does look really good.
How do you think these will hold up over time? The other options don't seem to weather/age well if they are exposed to the elements regularly (e.g. they fade differently, come unstuck, get brittle, etc..).
Thanks a lot for the nice comments guys. I definitely respect the viewpoint of people who love the original headlight design and don't want to mess with it. The funny thing is, in the two years I was making the headlight covers, I really grew to appreciate the uniqueness of the 996's headlights and I kind of miss them haha. The good thing is that the covers are fully reversible so that I can go back to the original look anytime.
To answer the other questions, yes, you would have to remove the chrome cap to install these as is. I would just want to do a test fitting first to make sure that it covers up the entire hole. If there is enough interest, I may consider doing a small run to make a version with a hole which allows them to be fit over the headlight washers without having to take off the chrome caps. It depends on if I can recoup my cost for the first version.
On a side note, I now get why the majority of aftermarket parts are fiberglass, it takes a lot of investment to make molds/tooling for automated production of polyurethane/ABS parts. For Porsche, they can offset this by selling a ton. It's okay in my case since this is a side hobby, but for a small aftermarket shop, I imagine it would be tough to make a profit.
That's a good question. We tested a number of different materials and tried to select one that would be flexible, yet not warp in heat, and not get brittle in the cold. It's pretty much a similar material used for bumpers. That said, the only way to know for sure is to see how they hold up over time and if they start to deform.
I think that's about as good as headlight covers can possibly look. Would love to see some pics from the side and from the driver's seat. The bevel around the edge is a very, very nice touch.
I'm in the same boat as others from a personal preference standpoint - I like the 996 headlights. They're distinct and unique. To be honest, my least favorite thing about the latest 911s are the headlights - they just look plain when I see them.
These do look very nice, but what about the loss of the fog lights? I would imagine they need to be disabled as the heat from the bulbs would do the plastic no favors. In any event, always nice to see someone who perseveres with their vision.
I think that is what makes these work.
Sorry to those who like them, but the other covers just look like something cheap that was slapped on the car. They look like other than the shape there was no real design effort put into them.
This one looks like it shows the effort that the OP has put into it.
Very nice work and look/design! Could this design/process be altered for mkI lights also? Would you be willing to produce a batch for mkI lights in the future if enough interest?
I will have to take more pictures from the side as I don't have any good ones but here is one for now.
For the foglights, yes would need to keep them off. On my 911 you have to manually activate them so it shouldn't be a problem. Even if you mistakenly turned them on, I think it should be okay since the covers have been holding up fine in the baking california sun.
As for pricing/costs, I hope to nail that down in the next few days and then start selling the first pieces next week or the following (depending on how quickly the manufacturer can get it done). Thanks guys for all the feedback. Btw, if you have instagram, you can follow me at "moderncla6". I posted a few more pics there.
Regarding the MKI lights, I actually thought about it as well because I really want a boxster at some point haha. I think a similar approach could be used but the way the lights are set up it's a bit trickier. What I really want to do is create a replacement lens in the right shape with the right grooves/bevels already built into to the lens so it's not a cover sitting on top of the lens. That would be trickier to install however since you would have to pull apart your light (not to mention more expensive to produce). Any preference on cover vs new lens? Regardless, I'll have to see if it's even possible to recoup my costs on this version before doing a whole new project but it sounds like a fun project.
Outstanding design
Can you establish a manufacturing process that your current design could be modified with a one step secondary process to facilitate the washer covers?
Andrew,
That is huge! Most of the masks that I've seen have been painted or glued on with no hope to safely remove them without damaging the light enclosures. If your prototype can be relatively easy to remove and the lights returned to the factory look, then you may just very well have the BEST 996 headlight masks on the market.
Wow....I am impressed with the illusion you have created. As others have said, extremely well executed. I know there are plenty of people that would do this. I would not do it on my 996 since I have the look of the car dialed in just perfect. However, for my boxster this would definitely be a mod to consider if MK1 is available. On a boxster the MK1 headlight is too big for the car visually and I think there would be a huge market there. More so then the 911.
Once again, great product and I hope you make a ton of money. You deserve that.
I actually do like my MKII headlights, even though my car is actually a MKI. But if I were to put covers on I definitely think what you have done would be what I would want on there. Well done!
I think what you did on the paint is PERFECT. Maybe Pelican would pick up your part for a wider audience? A very good friend of mine is one of the founders of Pelican, so I can run it by him if you want.
I think the mods deleted my previous reply. I'm guessing because I linked to my post in the rennlist marketplace section?
Regardless, to respond to the comments above, once I recoup my costs for the current version I am going to give the MKI lights a shot as I think I have a good idea for a design that would work.
Also for people with MKII headlights (same version as mine) who are interested in the headlight covers but have the headlight washers, I have a quick question. Would you only be interested in a cover with the hole cut out for the washers, or would you be comfortable with a solution that requires you to remove your washers, but provides you with a circular plastic disk/cover that exactly covers the hole that is left behind? In the picture below you can see there is a recessed groove after taking off the headlight washers that would allow a "plug" to be adhered there and sealed off. It wouldn't actually be visible from the outside since the headlight covers cover over most of the hole anyway, but would more be for peace of mind.
Lastly, here is another pic of the headlight covers from a slightly different angle and lighting conditions. I recently installed some H&R spacers and I'm loving the more aggressive stance.
I'd say the disk/cover would be useful. One consideration would be how much rain water gets under the headlight cover and then might go into the washer hole without the small disk. Even if it doesn't contact the electronics, it doesn't seem like a good idea to have a puddle in that hole under the headlight covers.
Definitely a beautiful design!
Good work.
I've been trying to secure (at a a reasonable price) a set of discarded light assemblies, that I would cut up and use just the face, (painted to car color) as protection on the track......or possibly as a mod you have produced.
Andrew.....no need for washer hole....loose the washer.
I think those are meant for northern climes. When you drive in the winter headlight washers are useful to get all the slush and road grime (from salt, etc) off your headlights so you can see at night. Now whether you choose to drive your 996 during the winter is another story...
I have had these on for a good 10 years and they have no cracks or paint blemishes, yet. C4 version.
I don't drive the car in the winter.
I applaud the effort as I never liked the "fried egg" as it has come to be called.
Since a cover for MK-I lights will require relocating the turn signals, I would probably go with this solution from
http://www.customdynamics.com/trufle...d_lighting.htm
They are very thin, very bright, and are flexible. I have the Daytime Running Lights from them and love them. They make some that are two-color and flash amber for turn signals.
A new lens would be best for the mark one, I've been thinking of doing one for ages and also had the idea of using a ring to distinguish the headlight, the other covers with the holes in are awful I think they look obviously aftermarket and stuck on, it needs to be a factory look, I'm really impressed with your mk2 version but I think your right with the mark one, there's too much surface area and the shape is more awkward so a lens is the best shot, even with a paintable section then we can just get our painshop to match in the colour. You have achieved something here where many have tried and failed so very well done!
Got my covers on Monday. Dropped them off yesterday at the shop to be painted. Was told it would probably be a couple of weeks, but last night my friend texted me this pic. Gotta get to work removing my old covers.
I have had a number of questions on whether these will cover over the headlight washer hole on headlights with washers. I had a chance to do a test fit on a 996 turbo yesterday and the good news is they cover the headlight washer hole completely. See pics below:
Even though the headlight cover covers over the hole, I would recommend still doing a layer of weatherproof tape over the hole first to be safe. Or better yet, doing a clear headlight protective film like Xpel over the entire headlight. I thought about making a plastic disc for people to glue on the hole, but after looking at it, I think a plastic disc would add too much thickness and keep the cover from sitting flush, so I think just high quality tape would be best. On a side note, it looks like the hole is not connected to the inner part of the headlight so there is no worry of moisture getting inside the headlight lens.
Some people were wondering how it would look to paint the headlight covers all one color instead of with the contrasting headlight ring. Here are some pictures from a Seal Grey 996 (with headlight washers) that I got permission to post. Thanks Jim!
Although it looks like a rather high quality pair of those, but I personally don't like them. better than the usual cheap crap but not for me
to each his own - I guess.
Just a quick comment regarding the pop-up washers......their up-movement, of course, is powered just by water pressure. Retraction is by spring. Also, the water source is on the drivers side and is easily accessible w/the lamp assembly out.
For anyone wishing to fully disable the system.....i.e. disable the 'stalk (forward) activation' of headlamp wash....for this mod or for whatever reason, an easy way to do this is clamp-off the washer water source on the driver's side.
Forgive me if this is a dumb question or has already been addressed - how do these mount? Double sided tape? I know you said this mod is completely reversible but I just want to make sure they are secure and can't be "removed" in an unwanted manner.
3m tape or silicon adhesive would work. My shop used 3m double-sided tape similar to this:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/3M-Automo...-6376/39148300
two side tape can be removed easily. If you want to be extra safe, then you can put a headlight film like Xpel over your entire light before sticking on the covers (that's what I did).
Regarding the pop-up washers, these can also be deactivated by pulling a single fuse. Information is in the fuse chart that should be in cover of your fusebox or in the manual.
They do not cover the turn signals since they are integrated into the headlight itself. They do cover over the foglights. More information and pricing information on this thread:
https://rennlist.com/forums/parts-ma...ew-design.html
I hadn't considered headlight covers until I saw Andrew's design. My wife purchased a set as an early Father's Day gift. I have to say that purchasing these from Andrew was a true pleasure. His communication was fantastic! Emailing with updates every step of the way keeping me informed of the progress. He sent pictures once the painting was completed and followed up with a tracking number once they were shipped. The fit and finish was excellent. I'm really happy with how they turned out. If you're on the fence I would say go for it.
I found that 100% silicone worked the best for attaching them. I tried 3M tape originally and didn't like the extra height it added. I would also recommend removing the lights for installation and sliding the cover as far forward as possible.
The covers don't obstruct the blinkers / hazards lights at all. See video.
https://youtu.be/NHx0yEqMB6k
Not a 996 owner any more, but these look far better than some of the other 'solutions' I've seen...
how about a picture at more of a flat angle to the covers, like from the side?
Loved the 996 C2, but like to try different cars. Had a 987 Cayman S for a while, then a Saleen S281SC, now on the hunt for another Porsche... Cayman or 911.
Took delivery today of my '03 996.2.
First thing I did was remove the 997-esque headlight covers . They were well executed and incorporated clear vinyl to cover the lenses, which is great because they have been protected and are in perfect condition.
But I hate the look of cars pretending to be something they aren't. Even seen an M5 badge on a cooking E39. Looked ridiculous.
I actually far prefer the look of the car now with it's 996 turbo-style factory original lights rather than some silly immitation of a 997.
Why be so negative? If you don't like it then keep scrolling. No need to bash on someone's product, there are a lot of folks that like this cover so show some respect.
Ditto w/Vincent.
Maybe we could just say, to each his own?
No need to rail on Andrew ("silly imitation") as I can only imagine his little project took much effort and many hours. Your thing is being a purest and not messing w/the car. If that works for you, great.
Some people are not exactly on that same track. They are not silly or ridiculous.
It's their money (and their eyes) that need to be pleased...or at least it
should be.
I will just share that.....every one of my cars is significantly 'changed'....often going from the new showroom to the body/paint shop. I've picked up new Porsche's in Germany and driven them to tuners where they cut off fenders. They have been concur'd at multiple PCNA Parades. Surprisingly, I've not run across many people that are judgmental of me or what I do.
I think it's good to respect other learned 'opinions'...but at the end of the day, mine (or yours for your car) should be all that really matters.
Enjoy your car!
I think OP's design and work are an order of magnitude different from (and Better than) the covers we've all been seeing for years. If I were a cover guy there's no question which I'd pursue.
Anyone else think the common covers say "I wish I'd bought a first-gen Lexus SC", more than "hey, it's almost a 997" ?
Andrew - Are you still looking into creating a version for MK-I headlights? You would have a much larger potential customer base considering that it would also include Boxsters.
+1 on the fence if these are still available. definitely looks quality and blend in very well unlike other options.
Not that I hate 996.2 headlights, I just prefer a more classic round looks. And I love 996 C4S back end the most... this is even better than a 997 front end conversion.
[Image-only post; no author-written text. Original image references:]
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlist.com-vbulletin/640x427/labor_day_1208c028ca398d0546ff33265447cd85a74c0fcb.jpg
Here are some additional pictures of the covers on different color cars in case people were interested. As always, I am interested in hearing feedback on how I can make these better. I have a few sets left, price is $390 shipping included, email me at
[email removed]
with any questions.
Also, after getting a lot of requests, I am excited to say that I am going to start working on a version for the MK1 cars. Say hello to my new project car below, a black 1999 cabriolet.
I decided not to do a version for headlight washers because we have installed the covers on a few cars with headlight washers and it came out fine. Basically you have to pop off the headlight washer chrome caps, deactivate the washers by pulling a fuse, and then cover the hole with some clear tape. Then you can put the covers on top (see the grey 996 turbo pic above). That said, if there are a lot of people requesting a version for headlights with the washers, I will reconsider.
It definitely won't take me 2 years to do the MK1 version haha. I'm going to try to get the prototype done this December. Hopefully will have something ready to go by early spring.
On a side note, I'm dropping price of the MK2 covers to $350 (including shipping) if anyone wants a set. I'm trying to get rid of remaing sets I have to fund development of the MK1 version.
Great news on your version of the covers. Will they come painted?
I have seen in some previous threads about alternatives in directional lighting for the front. Maybe other can jump in with their suggestions.
Thanks
Yes, I'll offer painting on them, same as I do currently for the Mk2 covers. Regarding turn signals on the MK1 version, I may find a way to keep them exposed while still looking good. But, I am interested to hear if people have a preference of whether to cover over the turn signal entirely. It would look better but would require you to relocate the turn signals to the lower grill opening.
***$350 Holiday Sale Price (shipping included)*** In order to raise funds to develop MK1 headlight covers I am lowering the price to $350 to sell through the remaining sets I currently have from my last production run.
Email me at
[email removed]
if interested
I think what you have done here is super innovative and while I am a purist with my 996 MK1, in fact I am heavily modding it suspension and engine wise so that it is a wolf in sheeps clothing. However, I would consider it on my 2001 boxster as someone earlier states. I think it would open a huge market there, especially since many of them have that amber lower piece which a large percentage of owners are replacing with clears. In that case its not even a shape thing. THis provides a great alternative to that for both Mk1 and boxster owners.
Now as far as how to deal with turn signals. This is a tough one. I think your thinking on just covering them up is the right one. However, this means its a much bigger job for someone to rewire the signals to somewhere else which would shrink your market. So I think you should do a poll on preferences (and even put a link to the poll here for the 986Forum guys) on the following options:
1) Cover signals up
2) Create a round opening for signals
3) Have a perforated area for the signals, enough holes to get the light through but the material between holes would have body color and hide things better.
4) Make the part out of clear plastic and then have everyone paint however they feel fit since the part needs to be painted anyway. People who will cover signals just paint that area. People who want to do different treatments to that area can.,
My two cents.
Eitherway, I am a fan.
Can you share on what kind and brand silicone tape you used?
I was looking at the 3m moulding tape and they are pretty thick and for sure will leave unwanted gap. Yours look nice and flush.
Thanks for the suggestion. I will definitely put a poll up once I get the prototypes done for the MK1 covers! I recruited a friend of mine who went to ArtCenter to study car design and he is helping me with the clay modeling of the prototypes.
FYI, for folks who would like the MK2 covers painted, I have a shop I use that will do them for $150 which I am happy to coordinate. Email me at
[email removed]
if interested.
I applaud your efforts and results Andrew. I checked the date and mine have been on 15 years now. showing no cracks or deterioration.
re MKI version,
to refresh memory, (I posted this on the 3rd page of this thread I think) here are mine on a 2000 C4. I don't think I have ever knowingly activated the headlight washers in 18 years of owning the car. So in hindsight, I would have deactivated them and covered over the holes. the indicators and fogs I would still have the cut outs for, since they are integrated into the headlight unit. I do use my fogs, and indicators are a legal requirement, as you know. So to cover indicators requires installing a solution somewhere else
I went through the pages but couldnt see if anyone answered the question. If someone wants to keep using the fog lights, how hard would it be to wire up some LED in the bumper grills to activate once you turn on the factory fog lights? A clean install would really modernize the look on the 996 front end
I have been looking into this and I have removed my headlamp. The foglamp is using H3 bulb with 1 positive 12V wire (ground is through bulb/headlamp housing).
You can remove the H3 buln and extend this 12V wire connection and run it to the back by drilling small hole to the foglamp bulb plug (and seal it back with silicone so no moisture gets in from the cut).
Get aftermarket LED similar to Slopeslider's and mount it to the front bumper. It is not hard to remove the front bumper cover (you have to remove it to clean the heat exchanges every couple years anyway).
You can run ground wire to the body.
With this, you can control the LED through foglamp switch. Make sure you get LED version or any lights that is rated lower than OEM H3 (rated 55W).
Hey all. Just thought I'd share a few more pictures that came out really nice of people's cars with the 996 headlight conversion covers (including laphan's car above). Price is $350 (shipping included) for those interested. Email at
[email removed]
with any questions.
To give an update on the MK1 covers, I designed the prototype over the past couple months working with a 3d designer and got a high quality 3d print made to test before manufacturing...and it didn't fit. I'm not sure what happened but it came out about 5% too small. Also when printed out life size, I'm not happy with the way the bezel looks, although the indicator cut out came out awesome. So, now I'm raising funds to do a significant revision and redesign the bezel. The good news is the 3d designer I am working with is really good despite being very expensive. I hope to have something in the next few months. See some pictures below in the meantime. Happy to hear any feedback you have.
Nice!
Can the bottom of the trim circle come down farther?
and no way to have the fogs in there but 'stealthy'?
No way to have the headlight squirters ?
Thanks jim. Unfortunately the headlight trim circle can't be moved much further down. Right now it lines up with the headlight opening of the stock headlight and if you enlarge the ring downwards it will start to look weird. As for foglights, there are other covers out there that leave those open, and in my opinion it looks pretty bad (see picture posted by Gretch above). Leaving the headlight squirters in will also look kind of weird. That said, once I get the basic shape nailed down I will look into both of those to see if there is a way to do it cleanly.
Very nice craftsmanship. I'm sure you will have plenty of those that want to switch up the look. I for one bought my 2001 Turbo because of the headlights. I like the uniqueness of them. All that said, take the $$$ and go to the bank.
Totally.
The 996 headlights (both versions) lend character and an identity to the cars, which are now seen by many as a unique identifier making the cars stand out as rather classic.
However as with any styling, there are those who love and those who hate.
I for one do not want my now officially classic Carrera C2 to look like something it is not.
If I wanted an 997, I'd have bought one....
To me classic is the round headlights and the 996 is the only version of the 911 that is not round. Some might think it makes the 996 unique however the Boxster also has the identical fried egg lights. What's good about this cover is you can always bring it back to stock form.
Well you defined the the 996 headlights as being unique in 911s in your first sentence. And where is it written that only round headlights qualify as classic? The 996 is officially a Porsche Classic now, but not the headlights? Wow!
I said people "think" the 996 headlights are unique. I also said the round headlights are classic, never said the whole 996 wasn't a classic. I sound like a broken record. Relax bro I like the 996 just like the next guy, but if someone wants to modify their headlights then by all means.
It's funny that over time I have grown to love the stock headlight looks as well. I have a preference for the MK1 headlight design as it was the original design Pinky Lai intended and looks cleaner to me (not to mention how badass it looks on the Gt1 car). The MK2 headlight was a modification to the original design to address the outcry over sharing the 911 headlights with the boxster and it was somewhat of a band-aid solution. That said, I think the MK2 lights have become iconic in their own right due to the 996 turbo/gt2.
As for modifying the stock headlights. A lot of people against it also mod their cars' looks with rims, bodykits, spoilers, and decals. I don't see why headlights should be the one thing held sacred. As others have mentioned, this isn't a 997 front end swap and they can be reverted back to stock at anytime. That said, I completely get people who love the stock lights and don't want to change them. To each their own!
Where did I say you said the whole 996 want a classic? I didn't. You said that to be classic, the headlights had to be round. That was the ONLY point I took issue with. So relax bro, we both like the 996, but I like the whole car
Subscribing for more info on the MK1 versions of the covers. I have a 2000 Boxster S with 996.1 littronic lights installed. I'm in the Bay Area, but would be willing to collaborate or help in any way I can. Can even be a test subject if you want.
Adding my opinion on the design - I really like the version that leaves the turn signals open. It seems to really work well with the body lines and the trunk lines. Someone on the 986 facebook group forums built these by hacking together some eBay ones. And I think the design looks really great. Thoughts?
I get what you're saying. However the way the covers shown above have a "cut line" that intersects directly with the trunk line follows the original design language. Porsche even tried to to this with the "broken yolks". Covering the bottom section would probably ruin this body line and make the headlights look very "aftermarket" in a bad way.
Unless there was a way to completely cover them, but also keep the body line. Maybe a groove? Or maybe two separate pieces so the owner could decide what look they want? and even with it covered that line would remain.
Another fun option that has cropped up on the FB group. What about an old school "slat" sort of look? That might satisfy the "want" to cover the signals, and the "want" to keep the body lines. This would also allow a user to paint the whole thing body color. Or Paint the slats darker as in the example below. Production-wise these could even be two separate pieces for people who don't want slats at all?
Thoughts?
I really like the slat look!
That would get my vote.
I don't currently have a Mk1, but it certainly wouldn't surprise anyone who knows me if one showed up in my driveway someday soon.
I like the 996.2 headlights.
And if I were to like this mod, I would want it to be clean like in the first images in this post but body colored.
That's my 2 cents.
@AaronMorris the slat idea is a very interesting one. I may ask my 3d designer to mock one up as an option on the next iteration of the MK1 covers. What do other folks think of the slats vs. the pill shape cutout in my post above? (I know some folks want no cut out/slat and will try to think of an option for them as well)
@OutNSpace the covers are polyurethane, ready for painting
@gobs, thanks for the shout out!
I saw this today. The lines of the 996.2 headlights with the rest of the car just look great. I honestly prefer them over round - including the latest models.
If you drive somewhere that has truly thick fog like I do in the southern Appalachians, yes. This was especially true before the advent of the reflective center and edge markers, or where these markers are not deployed. I have experienced fog so thick that I had to drive with the drivers window open, looking down at the center stripe, in order to continue, and the headlights just caused a blinding whiteout. The Porsche fogs tend to point very close in front and out to the sides, and they truly help in these very dense fogs. Otherwise, not so much.
But these covers look sooooo good......
If you define the ring with a grove or make it more prominent than the flat area on the lower part of the light I would want it all solid adding the turn signals below. As for the cut off above the turn signals like the ones shown, I like thst style too if it had the ring more prominent. My version, just like the Chinese crap they are made from are too flat, have no depth. Just for your info, I'm up to 14 people that have ask me to make a set of covers like shown. I think both versions would sell if you would make them. I'll take a set of the solid ones 😀
[Image-only post; no author-written text. Original image references:]
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlist.com-vbulletin/2000x1724/wp_20180730_08_01_20_pro_15239_2__0d8dec8f86943f7c912c9bf49a2b0c1483bb9a62.jpg
The slats look pretty slick--definitely my current top-vote. Second would be the fully-exposed turn-signal with just the upper covered. Last would be the pill cut-out. There's quite a few cut-out designs on ebay (ex.,
https://www.ebay.com/itm/FOR-PORSCHE...ght+cover.TRS0
) and none of them look particularly good on the car.
I agree ^^
Something else to consider is that covers like these will look different depending on the car color. A red car (like Jbauer's above) might look better with them fully covered. The bright red paint will help show the body lines, and still keep the round headlight shape. While a black car (like the OP's and my own) might not look as good with everything fully covered. The headlight shape might get lost in a sea of black. In that case slats or cut-outs might look better.
Just food for thought as we all give our input.
Im starting to think the cover with the turn signals open would be the easiest and most popular. If someone wanted to add striping they could. Just make the ring 3 dementioal and separate it from the rest of the cover by a groove like in the other covers he makes would be perfect. This was posted earlier not by me
and I think it hits the mark.
Hi guys,
i am am new to the boards and a new owner. I would be very interested in MK1 covers. Please add me to the list is you are gauging interest.
Thanks.
It seems to me that Porsche bowed to the pressure from their customers by ditching the 996 / boxter design after a five year run. Rather than evolve and be different a Volkswagen Beetle, they went back to that old look.
When I started looking at Porsches last spring as an alternative to getting a Corvette C6, I was blown away by how inexpensively I could become a 911 owner instead. I don�t give a rats *** what the 997 or 993 owners think of my car. I love love love it!
I have always thought that the 996 looks best au naturel. This goes for the MK I cars and the MK II cars. I think that covers look like a cheap add-on.
Keep it original. If you can’t fix it, then feature it!
That�s an amusing take on it. It�s as if masking the headlights will make other 996 owners envy them for mistakenly thinking they have a 997. So silly. As if anyone really cares. We are all so consumed with our own inner voice, our narrative, our worries. Have you ever watched a guy get in or out of his exotic sports car and look around to see who�s checking him out? It�s priceless.
Not weird. You may have it backwards. If they cared about what everyone thinks they wouldnt do it.
I do it because I like to. What everyone else thinks is irrelevant. 😀
Exactly!! We do lots of mods to our cars but get criticized if we do this headlight mod! I like them both ways! I just like the oval look a touch better than the fried egg. I could care less what somebody else thinks. I drive the car for myself. I used to feel funny driving a Porsche as if it was ostentatious or something. Now I hust feel great with Permagrin on my face!
I like both!
I own 2 sets of headlights.
One set has covers, the other set is au naturel.
They're so easy to swap out.
I don't care what others think about what my car looks like...it's mine so it will look like how I want it to look.
I know the answer, we need some data. For one year without headlight covers count how many waves you get from other 911 drivers. And then for one year WITH the covers, count how many waves you get from other 911 drivers. Then we'll have some data. Even better let's get about 1,000 996 owners to collect this data. Then we'll know objectively if covers are needed or not. And then we can publish an article, and maybe even an advertisement like...... Tastes great! Less filling!
I would love to see more pictures of your car but from different angles with both versions. Really nice execution on the idea. I think I may want to try these on my sons boxster in the not too distant future,
Never liked the 997 nor am I a �wanna-be 997�er�. Always found the 997 to be trying too hard to look 993�ish, but with a cheap feel to it. I like my 996 mk1 just fine, but if nice headlight covers came along, I would probably add them.
I am either going to buy a 992 or a Portofino next year. I never even considered switching my 996 into a 997 or 991. The 997 especially wasn�t for me. My next door neighbor has a 991.2 and as his neighbor, I find that car loud and obnoxious. Last time I felt the need to upgrade I bought a Ferrari California, but I kept the 996. If I buy a 992 or a Portofino in the next few months, I will still keep my 996 and my naturally aspirated California.
Normally I would agree with you 100% but if you follow the MK1 headlight covers thread you will see that he shows pictures of MY car, with MY HL covers and ask what people think of my design before I ever commented about me selling them. He asked if people want him to make covers with windows for the turn lights, just like mine. I figure if he's gonna show my car and my HL covers, why shouldn't I?
I will refrain from posting anymore but he's not selling any so I thought what the heck. Those 👆 are Boxster fried egg covers. Unless somethings changed he doesnt make those.
Have a good day!
Hey Andrew, count me in for your MK1 cover's once you have the final design. I have been patiently following this thread and looking forward to purchasing a set of your covers for my 02 Boxster S. I really like the original design of your MK2 covers, by far the best I have seen. I showed them to my man Ryan at the Porsche dealership and he was totally blown away, nice job!!!!!
I said I wasn't going to post anymore but you might want to read my explanation posted earlier. Also he doesn't make MK 1 covers.
Never has. I guess reading comprehension is not a requirement to post here. 🙄
Nor is there a requirement to practice proper forum etiquette, I guess. It is clear from post 25 that he is working on a MK1 design.
I have nothing against you offering product for sale, but it should have been done in a separate thread, or better yet, in the classified section.
Also, insulting potential customers is generally not a wise business practice.
Reading this tread I am reconsidering putting these MKII�s on. But then I look at one of the photos again and I�m like HELL YEA! These make the car look so much better.
Love the look of my seal gray 03 C4S, fried eggs and all but, I've been wanting to experiment with different color combinations, with or without washer, with or without fog light cutouts, etc. but don't want to sacrifice my now very expensive 996.2 headlights and want a mod that can be easily revert. Buying cover blanks found normally on ebay can get crazy expensive so and they look so bulgy so, that's out. A recent idea is to use Lamin-X covers, mask the design and try to paint over the lamin-x, instead of over the actual headlight like I was planning to do. I would just have to try different types of paint ad see how it goes. In any case, your exectuion of a 996.2 headlight cover is the best I've seen so far hands down!
https://www.umnitza.com/porsche-996-...overs-772.html
Did you ever come up with a solution for the MK1? I loved that red (911/Boxer) with the black covered signal lamp. Just wondering, I have a 2001 996 and somedays I love the front lights and somedays I think of buying a $5K mod and changing them. This is the best cover I've seen and no matter what the nay-sayers pass one.... good luck with your adventure.
